The Club Deportivo Verdellada, from the municipality of La Laguna, has issued a statement denouncing the "aggression and situation of helplessness" experienced by its Youth team at the end of a promotion playoff match. The events took place at the Antonio Yeoward football field in La Longuera, Los Realejos, in northern Tenerife.
According to the La Laguna club's social media, the team's coach and one of its defenders allegedly suffered "two aggressions" from fans of the local team. The situation escalated to the point where "the entire squad had to remain locked up" in their locker room due to the "risk" of further attacks and "humiliating treatment".
The team has also shared videos and photos on social media showing damage caused by objects thrown at the bus that transported them.
The entire squad had to remain locked up
For its part, the rival team, UD Longuera Toscal, reacted this Sunday by expressing its "absolute condemnation" of the reported aggressions and announced that it will take measures against any involved players or associated individuals.
UD Longuera Toscal deeply regretted the reported situations and rejected "any act of violence, aggression, or unsportsmanlike behavior". The entity believes that football "cannot and should not become a space for tension, threats, or confrontations" and warns that it will not condone "any conduct that goes against the values of respect, coexistence, and sportsmanship".
Furthermore, they indicated that after analyzing the facts and determining possible responsibilities, UD Longuera Toscal will take appropriate disciplinary measures against any players or individuals linked to the club who may have been involved.
The club from Los Realejos conveyed its deepest regret to Club Deportivo Verdellada, its players, coaching staff, and families for what happened, reiterating its "commitment" to "healthy, safe football based on mutual respect".
